RNC Files Lawsuit Against Michigan Secretary of State Over Voting Rules

The Republican National Committee (RNC) has initiated a lawsuit against Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, claiming that her directive allowing certain out-of-state voters to participate in Michigan elections is unconstitutional. Filed on November 18, 2024, the suit challenges the legality of a policy that permits individuals with ties to Michigan to vote, even if they do not reside in the state.

According to the RNC, the directive issued by Benson violates Michigan’s election laws. The policy allows U.S. citizens who have never lived in Michigan to register and vote, provided they have a parent, legal guardian, or spouse last registered in the state. The lawsuit argues that this has led to individuals registering and voting in Michigan elections who do not meet residency requirements, undermining the integrity of the electoral process.

The legal complaint asserts, “Michigan election officials have registered persons to vote who have never resided in Michigan and have allowed them to vote in Michigan’s state, local, and federal elections.” The plaintiffs contend that such actions infringe upon the legislative authority granted to the state legislature, which is responsible for enacting laws to ensure the integrity of elections.

The RNC, along with the Michigan GOP, claims that Benson’s actions have disrupted the legislative process, stating, “Simply, she has taken the Legislature’s power and used it to thwart them from fulfilling their duty to ‘enact laws … to preserve the purity of elections.’” This lawsuit follows a previous legal challenge against Benson, which alleged similar violations of election integrity prior to the 2024 presidential election.

In October 2024, another lawsuit was filed, claiming that Benson’s guidance contravened Article 2 of the Michigan Constitution, which stipulates that a voter must be a resident of the state for a minimum of six months before casting a ballot. The court dismissed that complaint, stating it was filed too close to the election.

Benson, who was appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer, has not publicly commented on the latest lawsuit. The RNC has reached out to her office for further clarification on the matter. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the implications of this lawsuit could significantly impact the voting process in Michigan and potentially set a precedent for similar cases in other states.

Legal experts suggest that the outcome of this case may hinge on interpretations of the state constitution and the authority of election officials. As the RNC seeks the court’s intervention, the focus remains on ensuring that the electoral process remains fair and transparent.

This ongoing legal battle illustrates the contentious nature of voting rights and election integrity in the United States, particularly as the nation approaches future elections.